Discussing the ancient hebrews and AT LEAST one other ancient culture Essay

Discussing the ancient hebrews and AT LEAST one other ancient culture - Essay Example This paper focuses mainly on the creation stories of the Hebrews, and compares it to the creation stories of the Greeks and Egyptians. The creation stories of these cultures are discussed and analyzed from their different historical contexts. The Hebrew culture is one of the major ancient cultures in the world. The early history of the Hebrews is recounted in the Bible in the form of patriarchal legends about Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. These are considered the descendants of the Hebrew people. Nonetheless, the 12 sons of Jacob are considered the ancestors of the 12 tribes of Israel (see Genesis 29:31-30:24 and 35:16-18 and Exodus 1:1-7). The Hebrew Bible, which is the Old Testament comprises different Hebrew texts, which were collected and assembled by major Jewish scholars between the seventh to tenth centuries A.D. These were collected from codices and scrolls. Nonetheless, the old testament comprises two major creation stories of the Hebrew people. This is quite normal, as it is n ot a strange thing for one culture to have different accounts of creation stories. The two creation stories of the Hebrews are entirely different, and these are recounted differently. The creation story of the Hebrews is from Genesis 2:4 to 3:24 of the Hebrew Bible or the Old Testament. Different extensive analyses of the style and content of the Bible has led to the conviction that the first creation story in the Bible might have been written about the tenth Century B.C. This was around the time of the reign of King Solomon. During this period, the nation of Israel was strong and stable. On the other hand, the creation story of Genesis 1:1 to Genesis 2:3 was written three to four centuries later and under different circumstances2. The author of the creation story of Genesis 2:4 to 3:24 is known to scholars as "J.† There is no clarity whether the same author wrote all the two creation stories or whether it was two different authors, including J and P. Nonetheless, â€Å"Jâ₠¬  is considered the most primitive or rural author of the creation stories of the Hebrews. In addition, the exact characteristic of â€Å"J† is not well known by the Bible scholars. While some think that J might have been a poet, others consider J to have been a priest. It is also thought that J was probably recording his or her people's oral traditions in written form. Therefore, lack of clarity of the author of the Hebrew creation stories is quite a challenge. Similarly, since Hebrews have two different accounts of creation stories, people might find it challenging or confusion to believe both the creation stories. As the stories of creation of the Ancient Hebrews addressed the creation of human beings and the earth, other Ancient cultures too had creation stories, which addressed the origin of various phenomena, including humans and the earth, among others. First, the â€Å"Pericles' Funeral Oration† written by Thucydides can be considered a form of creation story among the Ancient Greek. Although this does not explain the origin of earth or humans, it qualifies as a creation story, as it explains the rebuilding of Athens after a major war with Persia, which had devastated the country, as well as the people therein, including the effects of a major plaque that killed many Athenians. Nonetheless, this is a historical account, which is however important in explaining how Athens got itself back together after a devastating situation. The

Concrete Lab Report Essay Example for Free

Concrete Lab Report Essay Engineering B45 Concrete Lab Report Introduction: Concrete is a mixture of sand and rock or similar inert material (aggregates) held together by a cementing material. Usually the cementing material is Portland cement, but sometimes binders such as asphalt or gypsum are used, in which case the concrete may be called asphaltic concrete or gypsum concrete. Properties of concrete are governed not only by the properties of its ingredients (cement, water, sand, and coarse aggregate) but also, to a great extent, by the relative proportions of these ingredients. The proportions must be so selected as to produce a concrete mixture of desired workability, strength, durability, and economy. The most common aggregates are gravel and crushed stone, although cinders, blast-furnace slag, burned shale, crushed brick, or other materials may be used because of availability, or to alter such characteristics of the concrete such as workability, density, appearance, or conductivity of heat or sound. Usually aggregate which passes a sieve with 0. 187-inch openings (No. 4 sieve) is called fine aggregate, but that retained by a No. sieve is coarse aggregate, although the division is purely arbitrary. If all the particles of aggregate are of the same size, or if too many fine particles are present, an excessive amount of cement paste will be required to produce a workable mixture; a range of sizes aids in the production of an economical mixture. The best concrete for a given use is usually the one which will provide the necessary strength and the desired wor kability at the lowest cost. Unless otherwise indicated, strength, as applied to concrete, refers to the ultimate compressive strength of the moist-cured concrete at the age of 28 days. Most concretes are batched to provide an ultimate compressive strength of 2500 to 4000 psi after 28 days. The figure below shows a typical strength curve of concrete with the passage of time. The modulus of elasticity of concrete is about 1000 times the ultimate compressive strength. The strength of concrete depends chiefly on the water-cement ratio, with a low ratio producing a strong concrete. While only a small amount of water is required to complete the chemical reactions of setting concrete, more than this is used to make the concrete more workable. The workability of concrete is usually measured by its slump. The standard method of measuring slump consists of placing the freshly-mixed concrete in a mold in the form of a truncated cone, 12 inches high, 8 inches in diameter at the bottom, and 4 inches in diameter at the top. The concrete is placed in the slump cone in three layers, each layer rodded thoroughly to compact it. When filled, the mold is immediately withdrawn by lifting it gently, and the slump of the concrete is measured at the vertical distance from the top of the mass to its original 12 inch height. An increase in the amount of mixing water will increase the slump, but it will also decrease the strength and increase the tendency of the ingredients of the concrete to segregate unless more cement is added. Increasing the amount of cement paste increases the cost, so all three factors- strength, workability, and cost-are interrelated in a complex way. Procedure: 1. Concrete mixtures are commonly given as volume ratios as cement: sand: gravel. You will make two concrete mixtures at ratios given to you by the instructor.

The Coca and the Cocaine War :: essays research papers fc

THE COCA AND THE COCAINE WAR The current â€Å"War on Drugs† involves skirmishes in an arena with two fronts: The consumer and the manufacturer. The successes and failures of the battle are not clearly identified without first looking at how the battle can be ultimately won. When it comes to cocaine, the problem of punishing the whole instead of the individual is hard to define. Many countries use the raw ingredient, the coca plant, as part of a social and cultural structure. The only way to win the â€Å"War on Drugs† is to focus war efforts on fighting the manufacturer of the finished cocaine product.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The â€Å"War on Cocaine† has been trying to fight a battle on two fronts. The first objective of the American government is to deter the consumer from using illegal products. The genesis of punishment against users is sited in the 1914 Harrison Act, in which addicts and others that possessed drugs were punished for buying or possessing cocaine or heroin without a prescription (Bertram, 26). This act began a trend that still today allows law enforcement to arrest the user along with the supplier. The supplier (drug trafficker) is the key in this type of police action, because most of the time the user will be unaware of the exact origin of the substance or have any knowledge as to where it was purchased or manufactured. The main problem with this type of arrest is that 70 to 75 percent of the narcotic arrests per year are for possession and only 25 to 30 percent are for actual drug trafficking offenses. Although the user should not be overlooked, a greater emphasis ought to be focused on the supplier in order to reach the actual manufacturer of the illegal substances.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The other front of the battle of the â€Å"War on Drugs† comes from locating and shutting down the manufacturers of cocaine. Cocaine is manufactured from the coca plant, the drug’s main ingredient. When the government imposes sanctions on different nations for growing the coca plant, careful considerations must be made. Just like any other market, there may be underlying circumstances for growing the plant that are perfectly innocent to the illegal cocaine market. The key influence of the coca market comes from the Andean countries of South America: Peru, Bolivia, and Colombia. These countries are responsible for almost exclusively cultivating the coca plant, but Colombia is the main processing nation of the plant into cocaine, at nearly 70 percent (Stares, 2).

Macbeth :: essays research papers

The play is about a man called Macbeth who on his journey home meets three witches who for tell his future as first becoming thane of Cawdor and, later king. Macbeth instantly sercomes to the witches and believes what the witches say. When Duncan announces is successor as his son Malcolm is dream of becoming king through honesty are dashed. Lady Macbeth quickly comes up with a plan to make Macbeth king, by killing king Duncan and making his son Malcolm flee in hope to save his own life. The plan is followed through Duncan dies and Malcolm flees for his life leaving Macbeth as king. But the guilt is too much and he soon starts to see the goast of King Duncan, meanwhile his wife goes insane with guilt and kills herself. Malcolm army soon attacks on Macbeth and Macduff kills Macbeth. Malcolm was made king.Shakespeare use of witches in act 1 scene 3 and act 4 scene 1 is highly significant, I also believe that they say a lot about Shakespeare and how he would of thought. The main reasons though that I feel the witches roles were so significant is because Shakespeare wanted to please the king who was interested in demonology, to expose Macbeths mind the witches sort of showed his conscious escaping. Also to show human weakness or temptation, which gives the audience, a lot to listen for.The witches appearing in Act 1 had a huge affect on the story line. Even before we meet the witches we know the next few minuets will be very important, because of the significant weather change. You notice it has become very dark and tense this instantly makes the audience aware of their surroundings. When you do meet the witches you notice a good use of pathetic fallacy because the sky is dark and gray and so is the mood of the characters.When he meets the witches they tell him of his future as King Macbeths response is the expected yer right its more of a great! He doesn’t seem to need to know how? Or why? Or even how do you know? Which suggests that he may already have had these ambitions he doesn’t seem to question the witches as if he already thought it out minuet by minuet and he doesn’t need any more answers.I also believe that Lady Macbeth shared the same ambitions as her husband because when Macbeth tells her of the witches prophesies she also doesn’t questions whatthe witches say which can suggest she is a witch or that she also has an ambitions of her husband becoming king.

Computer Games Advantages and Disavantages

In today’s modern world, computers are very essential part of everyday life. Children often use computer from very young age for computer games and internet. Computers are developing their computer skills. Although, this can also be seen that children are too much dependent on computer games. It has got both pros and cons which will be discussed in the following paragraphs. On the one hand, some types of games can be very intelligent and may contain huge educational potential which can encourage their skill, concentration and inspire them to learn new things.If children use computer game from their childhood age, they are familiar with most of the function of computer; this will be very helpful for their future career. Another advantage is that there are lots of interesting features in computer, no child feel bore and alone using computer. On the other hand because of interesting features and different types of games in computer, firstly children become too much dependent on i t. They spend their most of the time using computer games as a result they lose their interest on daily activities like their school homework and also forget to meet with their friend and colleagues.Secondly, some video games can be very aggressive in nature so these video games are usually highly addictive and easily available on internet. Moreover continuous use of computer game can be damaged both eyes and physical posture of the children. To sum up, there are lots of merits of using computer game however in my opinion; children don’t spend their whole time on computer. Parents should also care about their schedule for computer game. Computer games are indisputably popular among teenagers. Because of their widespread use, many studies provide data on the short- and long-term effects of regularly playing computer games.Some studies conclude there is a link between playing violent video games and tendencies towards violent behavior. Increasingly, the social element to playin g computer games affects how teenagers interact with peers. Playing computer games has also been shown to improve problem-solving skills and increase adeptness at using technology overall. But an addictive aspect to many games suggests that playing in moderation is critical. Related Studies An online game is a game played over some form of computer network.This almost always means the Internet or equivalent technology, but games have always used whatever technology was current: modems before the Internet, and hard wired terminals before modems. The expansion of online gaming has reflected the overall expansion of computer networks from small local networks to the Internet and the growth of Internet access itself. Online games can range from simple text based games to games incorporating complex graphics and virtual worlds populated by many players simultaneously. Many online games have associated online communities, making online games a form of social activity beyond single player games.The rising popularity of Flash and Java led to an Internet revolution where websites could utilize streaming video, audio, and a whole new set of user interactivity. When Microsoft began packaging Flash as a pre-installed component of IE, the Internet began to shift from a data/information spectrum to also offer on-demand entertainment. This revolution paved the way for sites to offer games to web surfers. Some online multiplayer games like World of Warcraft, Final Fantasy XI and Lineage II charge a monthly fee to subscribe to their services, while games such as Guild Wars offer an alternative no monthly fee scheme.

Free Essays on Stress A Fine Line

Stress: A very fine line We are all familiar with the word â€Å"stress†, but there are many myths about it. Some people believe it means an individual is weak and unable to handle things properly. Others think it is an illness. Moreover, stress is an adaptive response. It is the body’s reaction to an event that is perceived as emotionally disturbing, disquieting, or threatening. When we perceive such an event, we experience what a stress researcher has called â€Å"fight or flight† response (Farrintong). To prepare for fighting or fleeing, the body increases its heart rate and blood pressure; more blood is pumped out to your heart and muscles and your respiration rate increases. Prolonged stress can cause many disorders, from minor to life threatening. Therefore, stress is divided in to two categories: acute and chronic. Acute stress generally is not very harmful, as long as it does not happen too often and your body has a chance to return to normal. However, it can trigger an abnormal heartbeat and even a heart attack in those with heart disease. Researchers have found that stress activates the body’s hormone system, provoking headaches, sleep deprivation and weight loss. Tension may be the first recognizable symptom of stress and is an early sign that the body might not be recovering from acute stress. Muscles are tense, tight and feel "hard" to the touch. A tense mind makes you feel jumpy, irritable, and unable to concentrate. This could be a signal to do something about s tress, both for immediate comfort and to prevent the long-term effects of stress. Furthermore, chronic stress can be the result of many instances of acute stress. In people with higher levels of chronic stress, the stress response is longer, contributing to their physical stress. Over time, chronic stress affects the nervous system and the immune system. The body becomes more vulnerable to many illnesses, from colds and minor infections to major diseases such ... Free Essays on Stress A Fine Line Free Essays on Stress A Fine Line Stress: A very fine line We are all familiar with the word â€Å"stress†, but there are many myths about it. Some people believe it means an individual is weak and unable to handle things properly. Others think it is an illness. Moreover, stress is an adaptive response. It is the body’s reaction to an event that is perceived as emotionally disturbing, disquieting, or threatening. When we perceive such an event, we experience what a stress researcher has called â€Å"fight or flight† response (Farrintong). To prepare for fighting or fleeing, the body increases its heart rate and blood pressure; more blood is pumped out to your heart and muscles and your respiration rate increases. Prolonged stress can cause many disorders, from minor to life threatening. Therefore, stress is divided in to two categories: acute and chronic. Acute stress generally is not very harmful, as long as it does not happen too often and your body has a chance to return to normal. However, it can trigger an abnormal heartbeat and even a heart attack in those with heart disease. Researchers have found that stress activates the body’s hormone system, provoking headaches, sleep deprivation and weight loss. Tension may be the first recognizable symptom of stress and is an early sign that the body might not be recovering from acute stress. Muscles are tense, tight and feel "hard" to the touch. A tense mind makes you feel jumpy, irritable, and unable to concentrate. This could be a signal to do something about s tress, both for immediate comfort and to prevent the long-term effects of stress. Furthermore, chronic stress can be the result of many instances of acute stress. In people with higher levels of chronic stress, the stress response is longer, contributing to their physical stress. Over time, chronic stress affects the nervous system and the immune system. The body becomes more vulnerable to many illnesses, from colds and minor infections to major diseases such ...

Teachings of the Living Prophets †Theology Essay

Teachings of the Living Prophets – Theology Essay Free Online Research Papers Teachings of the Living Prophets Theology Essay Of all the topics previously discussed, I venture to say that, in my own life, this- the Atonement- is certainly the most poignant. I doubt that the case is different for most others, of course- the miracle of the Atonement is probably the single most ubiquitously applicable event in the Gospel. Numerous general authorities have given extensive talks on this miracle, and it always seems to be the most moving and the most personally applicable subject that they speak about. James E. Faust says of the Atonement, â€Å"This was the most transcendent act that has ever taken place, yet it is the most difficult to understand† (Ensign, Nov 2001). I would concur with President Faust on this matter, although it often seems that the more â€Å"transcendent† an event is, the more difficult it is for us mortals to understand. The Atonement itself is a miracle. Now, I will not delve into the hard-core epistemology or definition of miracles- for a thorough discourse on that subject, read C. S. Lewis’ Miracles- but let us just assume that a miracle is a general event out of natural order precipitated by divine power. Something that God did out of the ordinary. The Atonement certainly fits this category. It was only from divine intervention that it could be performed. James E. Faust continues, in the same talk, â€Å"what He did could only be done by Deity. As the Only Begotten Son of the Father in the flesh, Jesus inherited divine attributes. He was the only person ever born into mortality who could perform this most significant and supernal act† (Ibid.). Before this takes a plunge into an extensive doctrinal discourse of what the Atonement was, let us instead turn our attention to what the Atonement does for us. In other words, how do we regular mortals experience this miracle? First, it is important to explain the two central views that hinder us from seeing the real power and miracle of the Atonement. The first view comes to the nonmember world quite easily. It is worldly. It is materialistic. It is that the Atonement is not needed and thus to be ignored because it does not really exist, that it is inapplicable, or too difficult to understand. This view leads to immorality, greed, hate, lust, and just about every animal or diabolical sin. Those who are worried about the next immoral romp on the town, the next cunning lie, or even a murder are certainly not thinking about the Atonement and the power it could have on their happiness and well being. The second view is just as spiritually destructive, and is generally more present among Latter-day Saints. Those of this mindset hold that, because their lives are not perfect and because they do not live up to their covenants in perfect idealism, they do not warrant the Atonement’s power. Christ tells them he can make them perfect, and they tell Him that he cannot. They deny the fundamental of this miracle. Although this view may not lead directly to sin, it certainly leads to unhappiness, the very antithesis of our purpose here on Earth. Thus, the miracle of the Atonement happens in one’s life when he or she moves past one or both of these views, understands the true purpose of this miracle, and applies it to their life. We do not warrant the Atonement by our righteousness, but we cannot accept it while remaining loyal to wickedness. We must remain loyal to Christ in the sense that we absolutely must desire to progress in virtue, but that virtue does not qualify us further for His blessing. It must be understood also that the miracle of the Atonement happening in one’s life is not a single event. Renewed commitment to Jesus Christ must happen every single day. Indeed it may be possible for one to isolate a single life-changing epiphany, wherein they were converted from one of the two mistaken views outlined above to the truth of what Christ would have us understand. However, contrary to what many evangelicals may have us believe, one epiphany does not sustain a person to be committed to following the will of God for the rest of his or her life. Indeed, the happiness and peace of mind that flows from living a life â€Å"saved† by the Atonement of Christ comes from understanding its foundation of incredible mercy, accepting its boundaries, and applying the miracle to one’s life every day. Research Papers on Teachings of the Living Prophets - Theology EssayMind TravelCanaanite Influence on the Early Israelite ReligionComparison: Letter from Birmingham and CritoEffects of Television Violence on ChildrenUnreasonable Searches and SeizuresBook Review on The Autobiography of Malcolm XQuebec and CanadaBringing Democracy to AfricaWhere Wild and West MeetCapital Punishment

Points and Punctuation

Points and Punctuation Points and Punctuation Points and Punctuation By Mark Nichol Point and words and compounds containing that root, as well as terms with the element punct- and some similar (and not so similar forms), are all cognate, deriving from the Latin verb pungere, meaning â€Å"prick† or â€Å"stab.† Such words are listed and defined in this post. appoint: officially fix or set, or assign or name, or equip or furnish as appropriate; an appointee is a person assigned to an office or position, and an appointment is such an assignment, or an office or position itself, or an arranged meeting (or equipment or furnishings collectively); someone who is self-appointed has taken it upon himself or herself to occupy a literal or (usually) figurative position of authority ballpoint: a type of pen with a point consisting of a small rotating metal point from which ink is transferred to a surface on contact; usually called a ballpoint pen bluepoint: a type of oyster cashpoint: British English term for an ATM checkpoint: a location, generally at a border or entrance, at which entry is monitored colorpoint: a color pattern on a domestic cat consisting of a light-colored body with darker features compunction: misgiving, anxiety as a result of feelings of guilt, or distress about anticipation of an event or outcome contrapuntal: adjectival form of counterpoint (see next entry) counterpoint: something that complements or contrasts with something else, the use of a combining or contrasting element in a work of art, or a melody independent of a given melody; as a verb, arrange or compose in counterpoint, or set in contrast dew point: the temperature at which vapor condenses disappoint: fail or frustrate; disappointment is the quality of failure or frustration, or someone who or something that causes such feelings drypoint: an engraving made without fluid, or a print made from such an engraving embonpoint: plumpness end point: the point of completion of a process or stage; as endpoint, a point or value marking the end of a line segment, an interval, or a ray expunge: mark for deletion, or destroy, eliminate, or obliterate eyepoint: the position of placement of an eye in relation to an optical instrument being used flashpoint: the lowest temperature at which vapors produced by a volatile combustible substance will ignite when exposed to flame, or a point at which something suddenly is created or takes place or someone takes action goldpoint: the temperature equivalent to the melting point of gold gunpoint: the muzzle of a gun (used in the expression â€Å"at gunpoint,† meaning â€Å"having a gun pointed at one†) interpoint: a system of embossing braille on both sides of a paper interpunction: see punctuation knifepoint: the point of a knife blade (used in the expression â€Å"at knifepoint,† meaning â€Å"having a knife pointed at one†) midpoint: the halfway point in a journey, a race, or a process needlepoint: embroidery on a base of canvas, or lace on a base of paper, accomplished with a needle; also a verb describing the action of producing embroidery or lace outpoint: outscore, or sail closer to the wind than another vessel pen point: a metal attachment used for drawing or writing with ink pink: perforate ornamentally or cut a saw-toothed edge on, or pierce or stab, or figuratively wound with speech (other senses of pink are unrelated) pinpoint: a very small or insignificant thing, or a small or sharp point such as the point of a pin; as a verb, precisely aim, locate, or identify, or highlight poignant: emotionally cutting, piercing, or touching, or apt or stimulating, or, in the context of smell, pervasive point: a detail or essential point, the purpose or significance of something, a particular place or position or a geometric element marking a position, an exact moment or interval, a degree, stage, or step, a projecting part or marking, a unit for measuring or tallying, a compass position, any of various punctuation marks or other small marks, a short musical phrase, the head of a bow used with a stringed instrument, a small military detachment ahead of or behind an advance or rear guard or the foremost member of a military patrol, one of various positions of a player in team sports, or the credit or goodwill created by making a good impression; as a verb, sharpen or give emphasis, punctuate or mark with diacritics, direct attention to or indicate direction or position (as with a finger), turn to a particular direction, or indicate a fact or probability point blank: at close range point break: the point at which a wave breaks as it makes contact with a point of land point man: the foremost member of a military patrol, or an advocate, spokesperson, representative, or person at the forefront of a movement or organization point of view: a perspective or position for consideration or evaluation of something pointe: in ballet, a position of balance on the tip of a toe (sometimes referred to as â€Å"en pointe†) pointed: having a point, conspicuous, pertinent, or aimed at an individual or a group pointer: a stick used to direct an audience’s attention to a particular part of a display; a hint or suggestion; any of various breeds of hunting dogs; or a type of computer memory address pointillism: the painting technique of applying small dots or strokes of color to a surface that blend together from a distance; a practitioner of this technique is a pointillist pointless: ineffective or senseless pointy: coming to a point, or having various points that stick out pour point: the lowest temperature at which a substance flows punch: a tool for piercing or for applying pressure to a small area, or a hole or notch produced by a punch; a blow or the action of punching, or energy or forcefulness; strike or prod, or perforate or apply pressure as with a punch, or give emphasis or move forcefully; the sense of â€Å"fruit drink† is unrelated punctate: marked with dots, points, or small spots, or an area so marked punctation: marking of an area with dots, points, or small spots punctilio: a detail in conducting a ceremony or observing a code punction: a piercing punctual: on time; the quality of being on time is punctuality punctuate: mark or divide with punctuation marks such as commas and periods, divide into or interrupt at intervals, or accentuate or emphasize punctuation: symbols used to separate and clarify meaning of units of written content, or the act of using such marks, or something that accentuates or emphasizes punctulate: marked with small spots puncturation: the act, process, or state of being punctured, or arrangement or form of punctures puncture: an act of physically piercing or figuratively damaging, a hole or wound made by piercing, or a small depression; as a verb, pierce or deflate pungent: painful or pointed, or having an intense flavor or odor, or creating an irritating sensation silverpoint: a drawing technique using silver on a specially prepared surface standpoint: see â€Å"point of view† touchpoint: a point of contact between a buyer and a seller viewpoint: see â€Å"point of view† waypoint: a location on a route Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Vocabulary category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:75 Contronyms (Words with Contradictory Meanings)"Confused With" and "Confused About"5 Erroneously Constructed â€Å"Not Only . . . But Also† Sentences

Ethical Analysis of Eight Mile Road Hearsay Accident Essay

Ethical Analysis of Eight Mile Road Hearsay Accident - Essay Example As a result, an engineer is under pressure to explain the causes and consequences of such actions. The incident has raised major concerns within the ECCS Analysis. The primary reason for this concern is the termination of High Pressure Injection, a situation that places the power plant in major trouble (Barbour 12). Facts A pressure valve opened so that it can relieve steam hence decrease pressure due to a minor over-pressurization passing. As a result, the pressure valve failed to close. When the plant operator noticed this inaccuracy, he terminated high pressure injection. It is worth noting that this was a faulty move from the operator because the system was on a two-phase state. High pressure injection is only applicable when the primary system stood in a sub cooled state. Within 20 to 30 minutes after high pressure injection was terminated, the pressurizer level collapsed showing that this was a wrong move. As a result, the operator was forced to reintroduce injection. Significa nt fluid inventory was lost in the 30 minutes that injection was terminated. The engineer reported back to superiors with the facts as required. However, the superiors did not take the nuclear engineer seriously. Instead, they dismissed this as hearsay. It is worth noting that nuclear engineering is governed by a strict code of conduct. ... The engineer ought to make sure that the power plant operations are smooth flowing. This is because the emotions from a nuclear power plant are harmful to the people around and environment as a whole. Residents of Toledo are also major stakeholders. This is because they are the key focus of my decision. The value of life is important to any ethical organization. Moreover, the operator had to know what to do in case of incidences. However, in this case, he took a wrong decision more than once. This risked the lives of all persons in and around the power plant. Moreover, the ethics of the top management are also at stake here because they failed to take action just because they believed that it was from an incredible source (Shrader-Frechette 84). Regulations and Laws Any nuclear power plant is complex. As a result, it ought to be well-designed and engineered to reduce incidences. It is worth noting that it cannot be deemed to be a failure proof. This is clearly seen in the Eight Mile Road nuclear power plant when the pressure valve failed to close. The accident exposed serious shortages in a scheme that was destined to safeguard public well-being and safety. Failure modes ought to be present in any nuclear plant. This is because a commercial nuclear reactor can explode like a bomb. It is worth noting that, in this case, the fail-safe mechanisms were evidently not present. Moreover, the location of nuclear power plants is critical (Maxey 123). This is because emissions from such plants are powerfully harmful to the public health surrounding it. In this case, we are not told where the plant was specifically located. As a result, we hope it was located in a place where its emissions

Extreme wealth Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Extreme wealth - Essay Example Sadly Barbara clarifies that their wealth results from the usual trick of overcharging their buyers, clutching their employees and polluting the environment. The rich also seem to be taking over lucrative sectors such as the mining industry and the farming sector. This happens while the government seems to be lenient and partially dependent on some rich folks (Barbara 553). The rich also have a positive impact in the society. There is a probability that wealthy individuals might share their riches and assist those in need. The rich may sit idle, but money does not because it goes through banks or other networks and eventually draws back benefits for the society. Unless the wealth is stored in the form of land or gold which is not in use therefore making the asset an incentive or a security for the rich individual (Barbara 556). Ultimately, all Americans would love to realize the American dream of financial independence. Astonishingly, the dream is among the means of developing the ethical foundations of a nation. Rich Americans seem to undercut and undermine the core values that make up the dream by trying to use shortcuts (Barbara 559). The wealthy are trying to manipulate and oppress the poor for their own selfish needs. They are culpable and should be blamed for the economic inequality

Modern dance and ballet Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Modern dance and ballet - Essay Example esis Statement: Modern Jazz dance has very little resemblance with classical ballet; it is an improvisation that fuses modern dance and ballet as such, requiring dancers to be able twist and swing while watching the positioning of their hands. There is major emphasis on the use of bare feet, torso movements and most importantly, incorporation of humor into emotional expression. This dance requires that dancers train daily, and at times, take classic ballet classes in order to help them keep up with the complexity and technicality of the choreography of this dance. It requires that dancers follow ideas related to efficient movement of bodies, attention to detail, and keeping with a small space while making dance moves. The moves mostly used in modern jazz dance include Jazz kicks, Hands, Rolled shoulders, Turned knees and Sideways shuffling. Important features of modern jazz dance are the syncopated rhythm adopted from jazz music; improvisations, isolations and its requirement of high energy levels and low center of

OES SPS an Innovation in Repair and Conversion for the Offshore Essay

OES SPS an Innovation in Repair and Conversion for the Offshore Industry - Essay Example Rob Duffin presented a number of issues ranging from the significance of SPS in the transformation of FPSO’s which includes reduction of operational costs, life extensions and easier repair of the current station assets without disruption or operational effects. Another issue presented in the meeting was the compliance of the new technology to anti-piracy measures. I will report each of the issues separately as presented by Rob. The Director of the Institution of Civil Engineers introduced the presenter. Sandwich Plate System (SPS) overview Rob described the SPS is a structural complex consisting of two metal plates joined together using a polyurethane elastomer laminate a definition he got from Lehmann and Egge book published in 2009. Rob asserted that SPS is easier and tougher compared to hardened steel plate and is not as heavy to use as the strengthened concrete. SPS has found various applications in several areas such as structural flooring, pitch and field terraces, fixi ng and construction of ships of ships, and construction of bridges. SPS the Global Perspective Rob derived the global perspective of SPS technology from Kennedy and Ferro’s book published in 2007. Rob reported that all the Global stakeholders have acknowledged SPS as beneficial in the construction industry particularly concerning enhancing performance, sustainability and safety. In the maritime constructions, SPS has replaced the usually hardened steel used in making components such as hulls and bulkheads of ship. SPS reduces the stiffening problem and makes the components less prone to rust and fatigue. SPS is used in the construction of bridge supports and structure floors in replacement of the conventional strengthened concrete. SPS eliminates the problems of fatigue and rust associated with the use of strengthened concrete and steel. SPS place are easier to design and customize to the required dimensions. Some of the benefits of SPS plates include reduction of stiffness i n structures, ease of application and enhancement of designs in deeper-water construction. FPSO conversions –compact Double Hull Just as mentioned by McDermotte in his article Tanker Structural Analysis for Minor Collisions published in the Journal SNAME Vol. 102Technical Note FPSO P-57, typical SPS Overlays in the FPSO conversions entail the cleaning of the existing plate, fusing solid steel perimeter bars to create boundary functions. Rob pointed out that some of the advantages of the SPS Overlay include quicker repair schedules, reduced labor and minimized downtime. The overlay provides permanent upgrading at minimized repair expenses, lessened operating expenses and enhanced revenue potential. Offshore Life Extension According to Rob, McDermott in his article also emphasized the significance of offshore life extensions. SPS Overlay is a quicker and efficient method of reinstating and intensifying offshore crafts and structures. The Overlay thus strengthens the structures and prolongs their lifespan by offering permanent solutions to the previous short-lifespan projects. SPS Overlay allows for construction of high quality vertical and horizontal supports that possess strong impact resistance, lessened fatigue and controlled crack propagation. An advantage with the SPS Overlay application is that is employs the pre-existing or damaged plating to construct parts of the steel laminate panel. This is a cost-saving process while still increasing the

Taxation law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Taxation law - Essay Example The main issue that arises is the income tax being payable in one case and exempted in the other. Why Dixon’s income is assessable income but Scott’s income decided to be a gift. Tax payer Scott was employed as a clerk by a firm, which was a shipment agency. His annual salary being 250 pounds and declared taxable by the taxation commissioner. This taxpayer respondent, Dixon, enlisted himself in the armed forces hence ceasing his employment with the former employer. The employer of the respondent came up with a policy that of compensating their employees by paying the difference between the pay in the respondents’ income currently being their employee and while being a staff member of the armed forces (Woellner, Vella & Burns, 1993).  . The respondent tax payer, after serving the armed forces joined his firm again in January 1946. An assessable income is the amount of money one makes within any given year that is subject to income tax. It is the sum of the money one has made from his job or by selling his property or any sort of investment or liquidation involved in ones total revenue held. In this particular case the tax commissioner was leading the case in terms of section 25 of the income tax assessment act 1936. 104 pounds were included in the tax payers’ assessable income in terms of section 25 (Woellner & CCH Australia Limited, 1987). ... The main difference between Dixon’s case and Scott’s case is the payable tax to be held with effect of 2 different sections of the act. Section 25 constitutes tax payment through means of assessable income whereas s 26e is tax to be paid on any type of income earned through means of a reward.in any sense be a recompense or consequence of the continued or contemporaneous existence of the relation of employer and employee or a reward. In Scott v Federal Commissioner for Taxation the tax payer is a solicitor who had known her client, a widow for quite some time now. She regularly visited the tax payer who dealt her with regard to being a solicitor but had been involved in constituting business together for some time now. Mrs. Freestone the client now trusted the tax payer who was make representations on her behalf to all legal matters related to a land called green acres which was under a restriction from the local government. Mrs. Free stone while making several attempts in lifting these bans was unsuccessful and decided to allow her solicitor deal with this matter who was later successful in lifting the restriction. Later, part of the green acres plot was sold in which the solicitor had played an important role. Later Mrs. Freestone had already decided to give out some of her estate and her money as a reward to people. Out of which 10,000 was to be paid to the tax payer as a reward. The main argument that led to the case in Scott v FCT was that 10000 pounds paid by Mrs. Free stone was either a reward to her solicitor, the tax payer or a fee rendered to him in terms of the services provided by him. It was established and proved later that this was a mere reward in return of his kindness and friendship

OES SPS an Innovation in Repair and Conversion for the Offshore Essay

OES SPS an Innovation in Repair and Conversion for the Offshore Industry - Essay Example Rob Duffin presented a number of issues ranging from the significance of SPS in the transformation of FPSO’s which includes reduction of operational costs, life extensions and easier repair of the current station assets without disruption or operational effects. Another issue presented in the meeting was the compliance of the new technology to anti-piracy measures. I will report each of the issues separately as presented by Rob. The Director of the Institution of Civil Engineers introduced the presenter. Sandwich Plate System (SPS) overview Rob described the SPS is a structural complex consisting of two metal plates joined together using a polyurethane elastomer laminate a definition he got from Lehmann and Egge book published in 2009. Rob asserted that SPS is easier and tougher compared to hardened steel plate and is not as heavy to use as the strengthened concrete. SPS has found various applications in several areas such as structural flooring, pitch and field terraces, fixi ng and construction of ships of ships, and construction of bridges. SPS the Global Perspective Rob derived the global perspective of SPS technology from Kennedy and Ferro’s book published in 2007. Rob reported that all the Global stakeholders have acknowledged SPS as beneficial in the construction industry particularly concerning enhancing performance, sustainability and safety. In the maritime constructions, SPS has replaced the usually hardened steel used in making components such as hulls and bulkheads of ship. SPS reduces the stiffening problem and makes the components less prone to rust and fatigue. SPS is used in the construction of bridge supports and structure floors in replacement of the conventional strengthened concrete. SPS eliminates the problems of fatigue and rust associated with the use of strengthened concrete and steel. SPS place are easier to design and customize to the required dimensions. Some of the benefits of SPS plates include reduction of stiffness i n structures, ease of application and enhancement of designs in deeper-water construction. FPSO conversions –compact Double Hull Just as mentioned by McDermotte in his article Tanker Structural Analysis for Minor Collisions published in the Journal SNAME Vol. 102Technical Note FPSO P-57, typical SPS Overlays in the FPSO conversions entail the cleaning of the existing plate, fusing solid steel perimeter bars to create boundary functions. Rob pointed out that some of the advantages of the SPS Overlay include quicker repair schedules, reduced labor and minimized downtime. The overlay provides permanent upgrading at minimized repair expenses, lessened operating expenses and enhanced revenue potential. Offshore Life Extension According to Rob, McDermott in his article also emphasized the significance of offshore life extensions. SPS Overlay is a quicker and efficient method of reinstating and intensifying offshore crafts and structures. The Overlay thus strengthens the structures and prolongs their lifespan by offering permanent solutions to the previous short-lifespan projects. SPS Overlay allows for construction of high quality vertical and horizontal supports that possess strong impact resistance, lessened fatigue and controlled crack propagation. An advantage with the SPS Overlay application is that is employs the pre-existing or damaged plating to construct parts of the steel laminate panel. This is a cost-saving process while still increasing the

Theories of literacy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Theories of literacy - Essay Example In addition, literacy is seen as the ability to read or write words. Literacy can also mean the ability to comprehend the different forms of correspondences. There are different forms of communication. The forms include body language, sign language, and video, pictures, listening, and speaking. In our modern world, literacy means the ability to read complex math or number systems (adding, subtracting multiplying, etc.) and complex words. Literacy levels vary from one community to another. Literacy in one country or community may be different from the literacy in another country or community. For example, an American resident would not understand (illiterate) the Japanese immigrant’s Japanese language. Peter Molnar (1997) states Piaget discussed how 60 day old child, Laurent, was able to shake a hanging rattle and attached with a string to the child’s arm. Peter Molnar (1997) insists â€Å"Smiling and cooing, Laurent repeated these movements several times and with short er and shorter intervals: "Laurent naturally shook the balls by chance and looked at them at once (the rattle inside them made a noise (p.109). When the rattle’s shaking was frequently repeated Laurent arched his body, waved both his legs as well as his arms short. He showed in increase in pleasure and continued to retain the interesting result. In addition, Henry Sussman (1989) mentions â€Å"It is now possible to complete the semiological definition of myth in a bourgeois society: myth is depoliticized speech. One must understand politics as describing human relations in their real, social structure, in their power of making the world (p. 3.)† The quote clearly shows that there are many facets of political life. Each individual or learner has a different critical view of the government. Some approve of the government’s political decisions. Other political decisions generally affect all the members of society. The average person or organization seeks government support Literacy is an activity that continues during the life of the individual. The literacy process begins with the ability to read words, numbers, figures, pictures, graphs, and other information. To accomplish the reading aspect of sentences, the individual must first learn how to read and understand each letter, number, figure, picture and the like. The literacy process ends with the words enter the head of the information receiver. Marc Miyashiro (1996) opines communication plays a vital part in the improvement of the organization. Communication within an organization is geared towards achieving established goals and objectives (p. 45). In addition, reading development includes a wide

Web Usability and interactive design Essay Example for Free

Web Usability and interactive design Essay The primary component is the look and feel which has been taken care really well. The combination of colors with a white background is quite vibrant in this website. The font is appropriately large to depict and propagate the message which the site aims to deliver. The layout of the index page provides detail information with respect to the site offerings. The placement of search facility is provided at the top right side of the page which makes it quite relevant. The usable features are as follows: †¢ Search facility is provided †¢ Layout of the page with respect to information depiction is quite well maintained †¢ Examples for certain procedures are provided which makes the site quite useful in nature †¢ Content is clear and simple, there are no flamboyant designs or images. It depicts professionalism in content. †¢ The most important content is presented well for user awareness for the site †¢ The content representation, layout, colors, typefaces are very ethical in practice †¢ Tagline appears in every page †¢ The contact page takes care of visitor feedback using their mail and telephone services The following are the suggestions for making the site more usable: †¢ The content is to some extent low on usability as the process is depicted in simple text and no diagrams or process models charts are used. Having a clear diagram would make the site speak for itself and visitors would be able to visualize the content rather than reading long texts. †¢ Navigation is not quite clear, it cannot be ascertained where one is in the entire process of learning. Links or absolute path names could be used to give a notion to the visitors for the path they have traveled across the website. Site 2: http://www. transparencynow. com/index. html The look and feel is not up to the mark for this site. The following are the features which score on non-usability are as follows: †¢ The look of the site is dull with respect to the above site (site 1). The colors used are not suitable for giving a proper message. The color is not consistent in the navigation of pages. †¢ The font is not enough large to depict and propagate the message which the site aims to deliver. †¢ The layout of the index page provides detail information with respect to the site offerings; the information is so huge that one would be lost in that. †¢ There is no search facility provided at the site. †¢ Tagline does not appear in every page †¢ Long texts make the content quite boring in nature and one would be lost in the information pool †¢ Navigation has not been taken care. The usable features are as follows: †¢ Layout of the page with respect to information depiction †¢ Content is clear and simple, small pictures are provided for propagation †¢ The most important content is presented in the content page well for user awareness for the site. One can improve the site by following the usability suggestions: †¢ The look of the site must be changed with more lively colors so that one gets to have proper look and feel. The color requires being consistent in the navigation of pages. †¢ The font requires being a little larger and more prominent for propagation. †¢ The text must be classified into various groups so that they are given a representation and promote visibility †¢ Tagline must be made to appear in every page †¢ Navigation links with the path names must be provided to enable a user to know where they are. The sites which I visit often are Ebay. com and Monster. com Ebay. com, an online superstore, ranks quite high on usability and has the following features of usability: †¢ Content is presented quite in a coherent manner with short descriptions and images †¢ Colors and text used promote visibility to a high extent †¢ Navigation links and path names are adhered to its full swing †¢ Search facility is provided †¢ Contact and feedback mechanisms are regulated to its full extent Monster. com is one of most recognized sites for jobs that have very high usable features which make it successful in practice. †¢ Content is presented precisely and makes use of text and visual representation in a tightly coupled format †¢ Colors and text used promote visibility to a high extent, it depicts professionalism and at the same time deliver the desired result †¢ Navigation links and path names are taken care well which takes care of the visitor’s coordinates †¢ Search facility is provided that makes the visitor to easily locate information and not scan the entire site †¢ Contact and feedback mechanisms are regulated to its full extent Conclusion The general issues of usability rest on the factors like content, text, color, navigation links, feedback options and others. If a website envelopes all the necessary usable features then it pulls traffic to a great extent and enables them to take an action. I have learned that high usability features is quite necessary to provide visibility to the website over the internet. The layout and content is enormously essential for attracting crowds and allow more clicks to their website. References / Bibliography Usability. gov. Retrieved on 2 October, 2007 from http://www. usability. gov/ . Transparencynow. com. Retrieved on 2 October, 2007 from http://www. transparencynow. com/index. html. Netmechanic. com. Retrieved on 2 October, 2007 from http://www. netmechanic. com/news/vol7/design_no4. htm.

Attachment Theories in Social Work Practice

Attachment Theories in Social Work Practice Demonstrating knowledge of relevant Theoretical frameworks (John Bowlby, Mary Ainsworth and Vera Fahlberg), discuss the challenges faced by social care workers in promoting attachment with clients in their agencies. Essay should include practice examples to support your argument. Introduction It is the purpose of this essay to discuss the challenges faced by social care workers in promoting attachment with clients in their agencies. This essay will be broken down into three main sections. Firstly, in understanding the basics of attachment theory as a broad outline to the essay, secondly a consideration of attachment theory in particular in relation to the challenges of social work, and thirdly a more specific consideration of attachment in relation to working as a secure unit for boys aged between 12-16, which is the specific situation faced by the author. Although the essay will be broken down into these three key areas, it is to be expected that there will be a certain amount of overlap between these three areas, and in particular than an understanding of the issues face by social care workers will also be present in the first section as well as the latter two sections. Understanding Attachment Theory Attachment theory, in as far as we understand it here has developed largely from the work of Bowlby and subsequently Ainsworth. Green (2003, p13) notes that ‘The attachment framework has for some time now been very influential and relevant to clinicians. As a theory it has offered a systematic way of understanding and measuring a primary, innate need. It lays emphasis on observable interactions that characterise the qualitative aspects of the inter-relationship between two people’. Not only is it relevant to clinicians but also to those working on the field of social care and welfare, as it seeks to both define and to explain the relationship between a care worker and those in care, providing a framework of action and expectation of the eventual result of the transaction of care. Holmes (1993, p.67) states that ‘attachment theory is in essence a spatial theory: when I am close to my loved one I feel good, when I am far away I am anxious, sad or lonely’. Many of the problems that are dealt with via the means of social care can be often as a result of a lack of this attachment, a disattachment as it were of the individual from the spatial relationship (often, but not necessarily the mother) that has promoted this sense of well-being and comfort. As Simpson and Rholes (1998, p.6) indicate, ‘attachment theory robustly demonstrates, as Steele argues, the need for a secure base. It posits our drive for a warm, safe relationship as a fundamental motivator. Well-being, in the first instance, depends on the maintenance of a secure bond.’ Therefore, attachment behaviour which demonstrates the lack of this bond, such as that potentially demonstrated by young offenders, shows evidence of either the weakness of lack of this bond, and should be re ctified. An important part of this from the social care workers perspective is an awareness of the family unit of the individual within their care. This is particular the case in our current study of adolescents aged between 12-16, recognising that, as do Simpson Rholes (1998, p.101) that ‘from an attachment point of view the discovery that the children who were classified as securely attached to their mothers with psychiatric symptoms more often developed later problems than did the children who were insecurely attached to symptomatic mothers’. Working with an understanding of the wider family situation therefore is of vital importance in recognising, diagnosing and treating those with such problems. Attachment Theory and Social Work Challenges There are, of course, particular challenges brought about by attachment theory in a social work setting. These raise questions that need to be answered by a social care worker in the context of their clients. There is this sense, already mentioned in the previous section, of the history of the client. This is not just to be dealt with by the social care worker, but will often involve a dialogue between the care worker in the client, for as Fahlberg (1991, p.6) notes, ‘it is difficult to grow up as a psychologically healthy adult if one is denied access to one’s own history.’ One particular challenge in promoting attachment in terms of social work is that the client’s social worker will not practically be available in a twenty four hour way in the same that perhaps the person’s primary caregiver has been in the past (although this may not have been the case at all). If the client has a number of different social care workers, this may make it very difficult to promote attachment if the care worker is intended to be viewed as a primary (or only) caregiver. Atwool (1997) notes that ‘consistency in the response of the caregiver is an important factor in building secure attachments. Where the environment is chaotic and the primary caregiver is not available to the child secure attachment will not be possible.’ It is important therefore in such situations and in the context of attachment theory, that as much consideration is given to the availability of the caregiver as possible, and also that there should be a high level of consiste ncy in the behaviour and action of this caregiver, if powerful and successful attachments are to be made. There may indeed be cases where a social care worker is, for many reasons, potentially the first secure attachment that an individual has had. This may particularly be the case in terms of adolescents who have had a difficult life thus far. Goldberg, et al. (1993, p.45) note how Ainsworth altered our understanding of this issue, in that ‘Ainsworth contributed the concept of the attachment figure as a secure base from which an infant can explore the world’. Social care work therefore, is a challenge, but can itself if successful provide this secure base from which clients can explore the world anew and afresh. Attachment Theory in a Secure Unit This third section will focus more specifically on the social work challenges involved in promoting attachment in a secure unit for boys between the ages of 12-16 who are serving sentences of anywhere between one month and four years in detention. Cassidy and Shaver (1999, p.368) note that ‘adolescent boys from father-absent homes tend to show, relative to father-present adolescents, more antagonistic attitudes toward femininity and toward women, exaggerated masculinity, and a relatively exploitative attitude toward females, with sexual contact appearing important as conquest and as a means of validating masculinity (Draper and Belsky, 1990)†Ã¢â‚¬â„¢. This will not be the case for all such young boys, but for almost all of them there will have been a sense of disattachment, and quite likely a failure in ability to form a narrative competence. This narrative competence, as described by Holmes (1993, p.9) states that ‘securely attached children tell coherent stories a bout their lives, however difficult they have been, while insecurely attached children have much greater difficulty in narrative competence, either dismissing their past or remaining bogged down in it, and in neither case being able to talk objectively about it.’ Part of the role therefore of social care work in this context is to begin the process of developing this narrative competence while enabling attachment to gradually take place at a much stronger level than it has done before. We now understand that attachment is so much more than just between two people, but that people develop multiple attachments. In the context of the secure unit therefore, it is important to develop the attachments not only between the adolescent and the social care worker, but also to do as much possible to promote the attachments within the family unit. Clearly depending on the history and nature of the family, this may not be practical, but where it can be done, it should be attempted, and can be a major key in breaking the cycle of criminal activity. Holmes (1993, p.66) states that ‘secure attachment provides an external ring of psychological protection which maintains the child’s metabolism in a stable state, similar to the internal physiologic al homeostatic mechanisms of blood-pressure and temperature control’. For those 12-16 yr old boys, they are at the cusp of their childhood attachments and towards making attachments as adults, and they should be taught and shown by modelling behaviour how to achieve these secure attachments and to improve their lives. Providing the correct environment is vital, as detention can be seen as a fearful place for young minds. Ainsworth, et al. (1978, p.20) state ‘how crucial it is in a potentially fear-arousing situation to be with a trusted companion, for with such a companion fear of all kinds of situation diminishes, whereas when alone fear is magnified. Attachment figures are ones most trusted companions’. Conclusion We have considered therefore, a basic understanding of attachment theory, as well as applying it in a wider sense to social care work. We have also considered some specific challenges of application of attachment theory in the case of a secure unit of young offenders. Attachment theory has much to offer social care work, but there are also challenges in promoting attachment in a social care setting. BIBLIOGRAPHY Ainsworth, M.D.S., Blehar, M.C., Waters, E. Wall, S., 1978, Patterns of Attachment: A Psychological Study of the Strange Situation. New Jersey: Lawrence Erlbaum Atwool, N, 2003. Attachment as a Context for Development: Challenges and Issues Available at: http://www.thelizlibrary.org/liz/attachment.html [Accessed 25th October 2008]. Cassidy, J. Shaver, P.R., 1999, Handbook of Attachment: Theory, Research, and Clinical Applications. New York: Guilford Fahlberg, V.I., 1991, A Childs Journey Through Placement. Indianapolis: Perspective Press Green, V., 2003, Emotional Development in Psychoanalysis, Attachment Theory and Neuroscience: Creating Connections. New York: Brunner-Routledge Goldberg, S. Muir, R. Kerr, J., 1993, Attachment Theory: Social, Developmental, and Clinical Perspectives. New York: Routledge Holmes, J., 1993, John Bowlby and Attachment Theory. London: Routledge Howe, D., 1995, Attachment Theory in Social Work Practice. London: Palgrave Macmillan Simpson, J.A. Rholes, W.S., 1998, Attachment Theory and Close Relationships. New York: Guilford

The Relationship between a Parent and Their Child in Khaled Hosseini´s

In Khaled Hosseini’s novel â€Å"The Kite Runner†, he illustrates how he develops the characters through their words and actions. Being the main character, Amir is faced with the challenge of gaining his father’s affection/approval because he is Baba’s son. However, how Amir obtains his father’s affection/approval was through immoral ways. Baba on the other hand, had trouble showing his fatherly affection to Amir which causes bitterness within their father/son relationship. In this novel, we will explore how the relationship between a parent and a child is shown through their yearning of affection and how it can affect how one would be in the future. Baba is the most important person to Amir because he is Amir’s role model and world. How Baba express his feelings of being a parent is shown through his interactions and speeches with Amir. In Baba’s eyes, he finds it hard to believe that Amir is his son because â€Å"if I hadn’t seen the doctor pull him †¦ never believe he’s my son† (23). Amir cannot defend himself and is often in the position of receiving assistance from Hassan. Growing up, Baba never had to rely on someone else when he got pushed around from the neighborhood kids. He always showed them up, but with Amir, he can’t even defend himself without Hassan’s help. Baba’s disappoint towards Amir not being able to defend himself furthers their already distant relationship. While creating his name, Baba had married a highly educated woman who was regarded as one of Kabul’s most respected, beautiful and virtuous lady. For Baba, it was fine to be married to a poet, â€Å"but fathering a son who preferred burying his face in poetry books to hunting †¦ well, that wasn’t how [he] had envisioned it,† (19-20). Baba doesn’t approve of Amir reading... ...the issue of winning Baba’s love because he was the legitimate son. The importance of having a healthy parent/child relationship is so that the child grows up to be in the right path and not regret anything. For Amir, that did not happen because Baba was hardly ever there for Amir. Hosseini displays the two developed characters emotions through their actions and words of how they express their father/son relationship. The relationship between a parent and a child is important because it helps develops the child’s character of how they will be in the future. The more care and affection that is given, the better the child understand that he/she is being loved. For Amir and Baba’s parent/child relationship, they had started off on the wrong foot, but eventually it had gotten better as the story progress. Therefore, making the child and parents relationship better.

Essay --

Strong, well-defined arms can be your best asset during the hot summer months. Although many people focus on the more visible biceps at the front of the upper arm, neglecting the triceps at the back of the upper arms can affect your appearance and strength. Dip machines, which are present in most gym facilities, can help work your triceps. Knowing how to properly use the machines and mastering proper form can optimize your results. About the Triceps The triceps is a three-headed, horseshoe-shaped muscle that sits at the back of your upper arms, opposites from your biceps. It's responsible for extending your elbows, which you might do when you throw a ball or reach out to shake someone's hand. This muscle makes up 60 percent of your upper arms, and by strengthening it you can add definition to your arms, and prevent a muscle imbalance and injuries. (See References 1, p. 46 and 47)The Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention recommends strength training at least twice a week. (See References 2) During your routine, work your arms last, so they're not fatigued when you do chest, back, and shoulder exercises, which also engage your arms. Assisted Dip Machine An assisted dip machine is ideal if you're not strong enough yet to do body weight dips on the parallel bars. This apparatus allows you to select the amount of help you need to complete the range of motion. During the exercise you stand or kneel on a movable lever while grasping parallel bars with your hands. You then bend your elbows back, keeping them tucked next to your sides, and allow the lever to lower your body. When your upper arms are bent 90 degrees, press yourself up to the starting point with the assistance of the machine. Squeeze your triceps at the top of the ... ...tp://books.google.com/books?id=2MOrDKokat8C&pg=PA46&dq=triceps+60+percent+arms+extend+elbow&hl=en&sa=X&ei=guMIU9fnN8qFogT8uYDIAw&ved=0CDYQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=triceps%2060%20percent%20arms%20extend%20elbow&f=false] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: How Much Physical Activity Do Adults Need? [http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/everyone/guidelines/adults.html] ExRx.net: Assisted Triceps Dip [http://www.exrx.net/WeightExercises/Triceps/ASTriDip.html] MuscleMag: Machine Dip vs. Bench Dip [http://www.musclemag.com/muscle-building/machine-dip-vs-bench-dip/#.Uwjejc5xWSo] ExRx.net: Lever Triceps Dip [http://exrx.net/WeightExercises/Triceps/LVTriDip.html] ExRx.net: Triceps Dip [http://www.exrx.net/WeightExercises/Triceps/BWTriDip.html] ExRx.net: Bench Dip (Heels on Floor) [http://exrx.net/WeightExercises/Triceps/BWBenchDipFloor.html] User Bio Essay -- Strong, well-defined arms can be your best asset during the hot summer months. Although many people focus on the more visible biceps at the front of the upper arm, neglecting the triceps at the back of the upper arms can affect your appearance and strength. Dip machines, which are present in most gym facilities, can help work your triceps. Knowing how to properly use the machines and mastering proper form can optimize your results. About the Triceps The triceps is a three-headed, horseshoe-shaped muscle that sits at the back of your upper arms, opposites from your biceps. It's responsible for extending your elbows, which you might do when you throw a ball or reach out to shake someone's hand. This muscle makes up 60 percent of your upper arms, and by strengthening it you can add definition to your arms, and prevent a muscle imbalance and injuries. (See References 1, p. 46 and 47)The Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention recommends strength training at least twice a week. (See References 2) During your routine, work your arms last, so they're not fatigued when you do chest, back, and shoulder exercises, which also engage your arms. Assisted Dip Machine An assisted dip machine is ideal if you're not strong enough yet to do body weight dips on the parallel bars. This apparatus allows you to select the amount of help you need to complete the range of motion. During the exercise you stand or kneel on a movable lever while grasping parallel bars with your hands. You then bend your elbows back, keeping them tucked next to your sides, and allow the lever to lower your body. When your upper arms are bent 90 degrees, press yourself up to the starting point with the assistance of the machine. Squeeze your triceps at the top of the ... ...tp://books.google.com/books?id=2MOrDKokat8C&pg=PA46&dq=triceps+60+percent+arms+extend+elbow&hl=en&sa=X&ei=guMIU9fnN8qFogT8uYDIAw&ved=0CDYQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=triceps%2060%20percent%20arms%20extend%20elbow&f=false] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: How Much Physical Activity Do Adults Need? [http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/everyone/guidelines/adults.html] ExRx.net: Assisted Triceps Dip [http://www.exrx.net/WeightExercises/Triceps/ASTriDip.html] MuscleMag: Machine Dip vs. Bench Dip [http://www.musclemag.com/muscle-building/machine-dip-vs-bench-dip/#.Uwjejc5xWSo] ExRx.net: Lever Triceps Dip [http://exrx.net/WeightExercises/Triceps/LVTriDip.html] ExRx.net: Triceps Dip [http://www.exrx.net/WeightExercises/Triceps/BWTriDip.html] ExRx.net: Bench Dip (Heels on Floor) [http://exrx.net/WeightExercises/Triceps/BWBenchDipFloor.html] User Bio

Affirmative Action Policy: Eliminate All Forms of Discrimination Essay

Question 1: Is the affirmative action policy morally defensible? Explain. Yes affirmative action is morally defensible in that: South Africa has been characterised by many years of workplace inequities and imbalances of the past particularly blacks who were treated in an inhumane manner and denigration. In 1994 the new democratic government came into power and had a moral duty to eliminate all forms of discrimination and thereafter level the playing field at the workplace, hence the affirmative action policy was introduced and legislated. Since blacks were marginalised certain jobs and skills were reserved for white minority in some sectors of the economy thereby robbing our economy of its potential and productivity. Whereas the introduction of the affirmative action policy uncovered skills and untapped talent, created more jobs in responsible positions and thereby allowing our economy to grow stronger and compete in the global markets. The harsh realities of the past regime created divisions between black and white communities and promulgation of this policy assisted in closing that gap and normalise the conditions at the workplace. Therefore the policy allowed companies and government to utilise all people to the maximum potential and created improved relations and communication between organised labour and management. QUESTION 2: In your opinion, which country has successfully implemented the policy of affirmative action and why did it succeed? America QUESTION 3: In your view, why did South African government choose to implement Affirmative Action policy and Act, and was it ever justifiable? Certainly the policy of Affirmative Action is justifiable in that: Central to the democratic government was the economic challenges and expectations of the black majority who voted them into power. Therefore, the government was obliged to strive for macro-economic balance that supports sustainable growth and development to ensure that the benefits are shared by all concerned. Consequently, the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 was promulgated in terms of which the Affirmative Action Policy was implemented and its main aim to correct and balance the inequities of the past. Furthermore the policy had to promote equal opportunities and redress entrenched inequalities that affected blacks, women and children at the workplace. Therefore the policy is justifiable based on moral, legal and socio-economic issues. QUESTION 4: Does the policy need to be discontinued after a certain length of time and why? Yes in that: The main objective of the policy is to create opportunities and level the playing field where everyone can compete and once this is achieved the policy has to stop. Moreover the policy is not a punishment for the wrongs of the past so it makes sense to discontinue it some years to come moral responsibility is achieved.

Future Indian Sports Manager Essay

India is in the forefront in very sporting activities despite having such a huge raw pool of talent which if groomed correctly can catapult the country in the international arena as one of the top sporting nations. Sports has been my first and foremost passion from as far as I can remember. An active participant of every single sporting activity in school and my local clubs my entire life revolved around sports from my childhood. he adrenaline rush that comes with playing  sports  is something that I can’t put into words Due to financial pressure I could not initially take up sports as a career option but after 6 years of working in the corporate world I have now realised that my life still revolves around sports and granted the opportunity I would want to live my life in the sports world. Observing the growing importance of managing sports teams and activities professionally, and seeing the emergence of specialised courses, I would like to work towards changing and growing sports from the grass roots level in my country, India. The prevalence of politics, red tapism and lack of promotion of talented athletes has more or less depleted and killed the motivation of such athletes in our country. Having been a part of the entire system myself and despite having being selected in the training camp for the state basketball team and having being told by my coach that I had tremendous potential but there was no motivation to pursue this as a career option as it offered absolutely no stability. Every year I see extremely talented athletes leaving their passions behind and moving onto make their career in other fields. Throughout the country a wide variety of sports are played. India is home to several traditional sports which originated in the country and continue to remain fairly popular. These include kabbadi, kho kho, wrestling and archery. The British rule brought many popular sports in India including football, rugby union, cricket, golf, tennis, squash, hockey, boxing, nooker and billiards. The country which has produced the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Saina Nehwal, Sania Mirza, P. T. Usha among thousands of other great athletes has not even scratched the surface. The talent is there for all to see but to a dysfunctional and corrupted system it fails to promote the same to excel in the international arena. To put in perspective these problems are not only faced in India but in many more countries. Some of the major issues which are considered to be the biggest problems facing a country can be discussed under the following points Management: – The problems in management are the single most destructive force which ensures that the facilities being provided for promoting raw talents never reach. In most developing countries especially in India the key posts in management are coveted posts and are held by politicians or their close associated. The result of this is that the leaders of the sports management in these countries are mostly people who are a) without any experience whatsoever in sports, b) are required to work only till such time that their elected political party is in power so they build no plans which can be executed over a five year plan, c) are mostly politicians who are more interested in gaining political mileage out of the entire deal and most importantly d) Are mostly the biggest perpetrators when it comes to corruption ensuring funds actually meant for the athletes are diverted to their own pockets by using different channels. For instance the Commonwealth Games 2010 which was hosted by Delhi, India came under a lot of scrutiny for the corrupt means used by the organizers  who pocketed funds that had been generated for the athletes. It was a disgrace for the entire nation that an event of such magnitude was no more than a mere money making scheme for a few individuals. In fact, the Head of the Commonwealth games in India Suresh Kalmadi has also been arrested for the same. The prevalence of such a system ensure there is no long term plan for developing the system from a grass root level and ensuring the plan is constantly evolving and growing in a positive direction rather than being changed at the whims and fancies of a politician. Involvement of trained sports managers can change the entire ball game and ensure a much more planned and structural growth for athletes from the grass root level. Most other problems derive their origin from that of management but are long standing problems with ramifications of their own. Some of the more significant problems which have strong ramifications of their own are: – Grass Roots:  The biggest drawback for a lot of sporting activities is a lack of a planned and sustainable program to develop athletes at the grassroots’ level. There is an urgent need to involve professional sports managers who understand the need for the same and are put in charge of the systems which govern the same. Promoting and training promising athletes will lead to emergence of new stars that would have previously gone undiscovered. Developmental:   With sports emerging as a frontrunner in drawing spectators across the world the need today in every country is to promote a variety of sports by professional methods, by packaging and presenting the USP of each sport to draw in a larger fan base. Although hockey is the national sport of the country, despite the country having such a vast raw pool of talent in different sporting genres, mainly cricket holds the limelight across the world. The IPL (Indian Premiere League) overshadows most of the other sporting events due to its glamour quotient as well as the huge sum of money involved. The lack of attention given to other sports in India besides cricket is very disheartening for young sportsmen . Packaged and managed to ensure maximum response will ensure many more varieties of sports draw in the same amount of attention and revive athletes’ interests in following the same as a career option. Disciplinary:   Due to a weak management system coaches and managers use banned substances to train their wards. Young athletes not supervised correctly are most vulnerable to the same. Discipline during growth is an extremely important aspect of a super athlete and forms the backbone during his growing stages and becomes even more important once the athlete achieves milestones. Economics of scale has become a focal point of discussion in sports today. Inequality in finances’ due to sponsorships and also government preferences has proved detrimental to non cash rich sports in all countries. Quality training and excellent facilities in some sports has led them to create a huge imbalance in most countries. Not only restricted to a single country but due to the emergence of imbalance among different leagues across various countries has led to a decline in the fan base where finances are not adequate and may eventually lead to a demise of the sport in that particular In conclusion it may be said that a strong management system ensures strong development of policies which enable a positive and sustainable growth system. Sports are an important segment of our country and also it is a prestige issue. In today’s world cricket assumes primary importance in the minds of the audience and the government has also by no means played a small part in ensuring the same. As a result other sports have suffered tremendously in the country My experience of sports in the state and national arena was restricted to Basketball wherein I had played for the university team and was selected for the state selection camp. Observing the rampant politics and prevalence of corruption I was highly demotivated. Moving on to a high paying job seemed to be the only motivation for me to leave sports and I followed that for 6 years, but my passion for sports never died. I have been strongly associated with basketball as a coach for my higher secondary school, as a player for my club and have also promoted basketball in my company wherein I have formed a team of my peers and have participated and won a number of tournaments. My main motivation for applying for the sports management course is a) to develop a strong understanding of managing sports organisations and athletes b) Understand and work with professional international organisations c) To learn modern technology and its applications in sports today ) To apply all my acquired knowledge in sports today in India e) Develop by working closely with the athletes a system of generating a higher number of quality athletes in a variety of fields Initially I would wish to work with national Women’s sporting teams wherein there would be a requirement for me while at the same time help my state Woman’s basketball association with whom I have been closely associated for the last 15 years dev elop a program to develop young athletes and initially work towards promoting the sport in the national stage and eventually the international stage. My eventual goal would be to bring women’s sports as close to par to men’s sports to guarantee young athletes a promising career in sports and ensure no raw talent gets dissuaded from following sports as a career as I did along with my entire team members. In terms of finance I would have sufficient amount to support myself in terms of accommodation and other living costs but would require financial support from the college by means of a scholarship or assistantship for the education fees. As in India the salaries are not very high in terms of international standards what I have saved would cover as said before the living costs but for the program fees I would need some sort of help in the form of a scholarship. I have spent all my life involved in sports in some way or the other and despite having a natural talent and passion for the same have not been able to follow it as a career option in my life. Today the face of sports especially in India is changing and I am right now in a stage in my career where with all the experience gained in the corporate world coupled with my passion for sports I can contribute in this field. For this I need to be further exposed to the knowledge and experience which your institute offers. I dream to make a change in the industry in my country and this is the main motive behind me applying for the degree which has already enabled many individuals to achieve their goals.

Discussion Question Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Discussion Question - Essay Example Especially when the conflicts and tensions go on like they have been doing for the past several years. These areas are very dry and, due to the fact that armed forces changed their way of warfare by getting ‘mean’ and just cutting areas off from water supplies, people are more likely to suffer from fresh water shortage, irrigation problems and all kinds of water related diseases. Since there is not really any proper solution, and maybe not a ‘real’ threat yet, water wars may develop in countries or regions with high populations in combination with low fresh water supplies, like the Middle East. International water resources: Another conflict variable Not only are the conflicts over water coming from within one country threatening societies, other countries and the shared water resources are a threat to fresh water supplies in the future as well. Some scholars have been saying for many years now that either scarcity can contribute to conflict and other schola rs have argued that scarcity can contribute to a solution (Dinar 35). Factors and variables that influence the conflict or the solution of these international water problems are mentioned by Dinar (35).

Case analysis Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 5

Analysis - Case Study Example In the United States McDonalds is considered responsible for the increasing rate of obesity in the country and is alleged of promoting unhealthy food products and thus it has created a threat for the company. For an effective sustainability of the company, it is essential to adopt an effective marketing strategy that would promote healthy food products as well as the health risks from their consumption (Currie, Vigna, Moretti and Pathania 1-41). McDonalds are taking steps to enhance its image through promoting healthy foods. McDonald’s is among the largest fast food companies that operate all over the world having its head quarter in the United States. For the past several years, company is facing several issues regarding their marketing strategy as well as harmful impacts on the people due to the consumption of their fast food. It has been found through survey that a higher percentage of obesity all over the world including the United States is caused due to increasing rate of consumption of fast food. This is creating a threat for McDonalds brand image in the USA. However, McDonalds is using various marketing strategies to promote its food as healthy. Obesity is generally a metabolic disorder through which excess fat is accumulated in the body that negatively affects the health condition of an individual, leading to other chronic diseases. Level of obesity is measured with the help of Body Mass Index (BMI) and an individual in the Western countries are considered as obese if his/her BMI exceeds 30 kg/m2 . The reason for the increasing rate of obesity in the United States is considered due to the high intake of fast food and less physical activity. However, the government of the United States considered McDonalds as the main culprit for the increasing rate of obesity in the country and implemented various policies for restricting the marketing activities that would make fool of the people. In the year 2003, two obesity suits were made

News Values Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

News Values - Essay Example The Egyptian piece I picked to help demonstrate the seven news values is a piece about an important Egyptian Imah issuing a fatawa forbidding Muslims from participating in a strike against rising food prices that was set to take place on Sunday. The first news value, the value of impact, is very strong in this piece. This is sure to be a hot topic over in Egypt, as the religious leaders have now made it so people cannot participate in the strike that was to take place on Sunday. It has the right amount of impact upon the reader, and is sure to stir up interesting reader response. The article also displays appropriate timeliness. The article is coming out well before the strike, and it also gives people enough time of a warning if they had planned on taking part in the strike. It would completely loose its timeliness if it came out after the strike, so I would have to say that the timing is perfect. I do not think that the article could carry any more prominence that it already does. It involves a high ranking religious leader, and a touch sensitive subject about the strike. It is an important story, and would be a very important story for the people reading it over in Egypt. Proximity is also right on the dot.

Prevention of infection in IVC Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Prevention of infection in IVC - Essay Example These intravascular catheters usually terminate at or near the heart, or in one of the great vessels including vena cava among others (Cdc.gov, 2010). This paper looks into prevention of infection in Inferior Vena Cava (IVC). Before inserting catheters, the inserter and their assistant(s) should observe strict proper hand hygiene by washing hands either with alcohol-based hand rub or with conventional antiseptic-containing soap. They should also take maximal barrier precautions – use mask, head cover, sterile gloves and sterile gown. They should also drape the patient with the full body drape and maintain a sterile environment during the insertion. The inserter should perform a back-and-forth friction scrub on the site skin using chlorhexidine skin preparation, and then ensure that the solution dries utterly before attempting central line insertion. The drying time varies with the site of insertion. If possible, use antimicrobial-impregnated catheters. After initial insertion, they should apply occlusive sterile dressing per policy. Unless in emergencies, they should not perform any fluids/medications administration through the line prior to verifying the catheter tip placement. Most importantly, one should never connect previously used administration sets and fluids to central venous access lines (WHO, 2005).

ICT Knowledge Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

ICT Knowledge Management - Essay Example Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has introduced such technologies which really help managers and employees in the management of relevant knowledge. Companies cannot install ICT technologies properly on their own. Therefore, they hire ICT specialists for the installation of any specific ICT technology. Smith (2011) states, â€Å"An information and communications technology (ICT) specialist designs, maintains, and services systems used to store, retrieve, and send data†. Let us now discuss the role which ICT can play in knowledge management. In the report, we will consider one of the most effective ICT technologies which helps companies determine what information should be collected and converted into knowledge. The ICT technology, which will be discussed in the paper, will be Management and Information System (MIS). We will also discuss the role of ICT in different industries. 2. Role of the ICT Technology ICT plays a considerable role in knowledge management. Man agement Information System is an example of ICT which helps employees in the management of information that is required to run different business activities. Martin (2010) asserts, â€Å"Management Information Systems, which are often abbreviated to MIS are a subdivision of internal business controls that usually refer to documents, IT, people and procedures†. ... illon (2010) states, â€Å"The chief principle of management information system is to make sure that the flow of correct information is facilitated to the right people or parties in an organization†. The key tasks of an efficient Management Information System include management of business related information, documentation of the collected information, and assisting the management in processing the information. â€Å"The processing of data into information and communicating the resulting information to the user are the very essence of an MIS† (Lucey 2005, p. 4). Management Information System presents the data to the concerned department in the form of a well-documented report consisting of those activities that are needed to be executed by the management of any specific department. The main purpose of using ICT technologies in an organization is to develop and manage such tools which help managers, decision makers, and other employees of an organization in the processi ng of information related to different sets of tasks and business operations. ICT is considered an integral part of any organization because it controls all activities regarding businesses of any organization by providing the right information to the right person at right place and at the right time. ICT not only helps companies collect relevant information, rather it is also used to process, analyze, and disseminate the collected information in order to carry out key business processes of an organization. Abel (2008) found that MIS deals with the planning, management, and use of effective information technology tools to help people manage relevant knowledge. Without the use of effective Management Information System, the employees can never properly access or use the information that is required to run

Inferential Statistics Essay Example for Free

Inferential Statistics Essay With inferential statistics, you are trying to reach conclusions that extend beyond the immediate data alone. For instance, we use inferential statistics to try to infer from the sample data what the population might think. Or, we use inferential statistics to make judgments of the probability that an observed difference between groups is a dependable one or one that might have happened by chance in this study. Thus, we use inferential statistics to make inferences from our data to more general conditions; we use descriptive statistics simply to describe whats going on in our data. Here, I concentrate on inferential statistics that are useful in experimental and quasi-experimental research design or in program outcome evaluation. Perhaps one of the simplest inferential test is used when you want to compare the average performance of two groups on a single measure to see if there is a difference. You might want to know whether eighth-grade boys and girls differ in math test scores or whether a program group differs on the outcome measure from a control group. Whenever you wish to compare the average performance between two groups you should consider the t-test for differences between groups. Most of the major inferential statistics come from a general family of statistical models known as the General Linear Model. This includes the t-test, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA), regression analysis, and many of the multivariate methods like factor analysis, multidimensional scaling, cluster analysis, discriminant function analysis, and so on. Given the importance of the General Linear Model, its a good idea for any serious social researcher to become familiar with its workings. The discussion of the General Linear Model here is very elementary and only considers the simplest straight-line model. However, it will get you familiar with the idea of the linear model and help prepare you for the more complex analyses described below. One of the keys to understanding how groups are compared is embodied in the notion of the dummy variable. The name doesnt suggest that we are using variables that arent very smart or, even worse, that the analyst who uses t hem is a dummy! Perhaps these variables would be better described as proxy variables. Essentially a dummy variable is one that uses discrete numbers, usually 0 and 1, to represent different groups in your study. Dummy variables are a simple idea that enable some pretty complicated things to  happen. For instance, by including a simple dummy variable in an model, I can model two separate lines (one for each treatment group) with a single equation. To see how this works, check out the discussion on dummy variables. One of the most important analyses in program outcome evaluations involves comparing the program and non-program group on the outcome variable or variables. How we do this depends on the research design we use. research designs are divided into two major types of designs: experimental and quasi-experimental. Because the analyses differ for each, they are presented separately. Experimental Analysis. The simple two-group posttest-only randomized experiment is usually analyzed with the simple t-test or one-way ANOVA. The factorial experimental designs are usually analyzed with the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) Model. Randomized Block Designs use a special form of ANOVA blocking model that uses dummy-coded variables to represent the blocks. The Analysis of Covariance Experimental Design uses, not surprisingly, the Analysis of Covariance statistical model. Quasi-Experimental Analysis. The quasi-experimental designs differ from the experimental ones in that they dont use random assignment to assign units (e.g., people) to program groups. The lack of random assignment in these designs tends to complicate their analysis considerably. For example, to analyze the Nonequivalent Groups Design (NEGD) we have to adjust the pretest scores for measurement error in what is often called a Reliability-Corrected Analysis of Covariance model. In the Regression-Discontinuity Design, we need to be especially concerned about curvilinearity and model misspecification. Consequently, we tend to use a conservative analysis approach that is based on polynomial regression that starts by overfitting the likely true function and then reducing the model based on the results. The Regression Point Displacement Design has only a single treated unit. Nevertheless, the analysis of the RPD design is based directly on the traditional ANCOVA model. When youve investigated these various analytic models, youll see that they all come from the same family the General Linear Model. An understanding of that model will go a long way to introducing you to the intricacies of data analysis in applied and social research contexts. The T-Test The t-test assesses whether the means of two groups are statistically  different from each other. This analysis is appropriate whenever you want to compare the means of two groups, and especially appropriate as the analysis for the posttest-only two-group randomized experimental design. Figure 1. Idealized distributions for treated and comparison group posttest values. | Figure 1 shows the distributions for the treated (blue) and control (green) groups in a study. Actually, the figure shows the idealized distribution the actual distribution would usually be depicted with a histogram or bar graph. The figure indicates where the control and treatment group means are located. The question the t-test addresses is whether the means are statistically different. What does it mean to say that the averages for two groups are statistically different? Consider the three situations shown in Figure 2. The first thing to notice about the three situations is that the difference between the means is the same in all three. But, you should also notice that the three situations dont look the same they tell very different stories. The top example shows a case with moderate variability of scores within each group. The second situation shows the high variability case. the third shows the case with low variability. Clearly, we would conclude that the two groups appear most different or distinct in the bottom or low-variability case. Why? Because there is relatively little overlap between the two bell-shaped curves. In the high variability case, the group difference appears least striking because the two bell-shaped distributions overlap so much. Figure 2. Three scenarios for differences between means. | This leads us to a very important conclusion: when we are looking at the differences between scores for two groups, we have to judge the difference between their means relative to the spread or variability of their scores. The t-test does just this. Statistical Analysis of the t-test The formula for the t-test is a ratio. The top part of the ratio is just the difference between the two means or averages. The bottom part is a measure of the variability or dispersion of the scores. This formula is essentially another example of the signal-to-noise metaphor in research: the difference between the means is the signal that, in this case, we think our program or  treatment introduced into the data; the bottom part of the formula is a measure of variability that is essentially noise that may make it harder to see the group difference. Figure 3 shows the formula for the t-test and how the numerator and denominator are related to the distributions.